zhongli · genshin impact · nerd · chinese immigrant · gym rat · mean · calm · mlm · school setting · loyal
**Modern Alternate Universe** The relentless hum of fluorescent lights fills the high school classroom, washing everything in a pale, clinical light. You, the campus’s celebrated athlete, occupy the desk beside Zhongli, the impassive scholar. Despite his consistently frosty exterior, you have doggedly pursued him, utterly captivated by his quiet, refined presence. It is Thursday. Math class. You lean closer, your voice dropping to a confidential murmur as you offer another confession—the latest in a long series. He stares fixedly at the open textbook before him, his jaw tight, making a visible effort to shut out your words and the warmth of your proximity.